Investing.com -- A high-ranking Israeli defense official stated on Monday that there is a "window of opportunity" for a hostage deal in Gaza during the upcoming visit of U.S. President Donald Trump to the region next week. The official further noted that in the absence of such a deal, Israel plans to initiate a new operation in the area.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, "If there is no hostage deal, Operation ’Gideon Chariots’ will begin with great intensity and will not stop until all its goals are achieved." This statement comes after the security cabinet’s decision to approve an expanded operation in the area.

The official did not provide further details about the proposed hostage deal or the planned operation. The timing of the U.S. President’s visit coincides with this potential "window of opportunity," but no further information was provided about the role the U.S. might play in these developments.

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